Rhapsody Of Fire Interviews and Features

Ever since its inception in 1993 and revered debut "Legendary Tales" in 1997, Rhapsody Of Fire has been one of the pioneers of the classical power metal sound. The band is credited as being one of the very best bands in the history of power metal, releasing such classics as "Symphony of Enchanted Lands, Pts 1-2" and "Dawn of Victory," albums that have influenced a large swath of acts which followed.

In 2011, in a legendary mutual split, co-founders Alex Staropoli and Luca Turilli agreed to separate – each retaining the entire back catalog of the band up to that point, but one which would see a new vision of cinematic metal for Turilli (Luca Turilli’s Rhapsody) and a return to the heavier film score metal direction of old for Alex Staropoli (Rhapsody Of Fire). Vocalist Fabio Lione would work with Rhapsody Of Fire and drummer Alex Holzwarth would initially work with both bands before committing to Rhapsody Of Fire exclusively in 2012.

Since that time, Rhapsody Of Fire has released two studio albums: "Dark Wings Of Steel" in 2013 and "Into the Legend" released earlier this year. On September 28th, in a major lineup change, Fabio Lione announced his departure from the band citing a new chapter with his commitments with Angra and new band Eternal Idol. On October 9, 2015, drummer Alex Holzwarth announced his departure, citing his own commitments with Serious Black.

Rhapsody Of Fire has vowed to continue with a new vocalist and drummer (to compliment keyboardist/composer Alex Staropoli, guitarist Roberto Di Micheli and bassist Alessandro Sala) and expressed a renewed energy to take on the exciting new challenges. In the band’s first post interview since Lione and Holzwarth’s departure, Alex Staropoli sat down with Metal Underground.com to talk about the latest happenings and the future of the band. More...